I recently saw a very impressive video called “The Power of Words” It was posted by Purple Feather, a company which helps businesses craft their message. It opens with a blind man, begging for money with a mat, sign, and a tin cup in front of him. The message on the sign is, “I’m blind. Please help!” Very few people come by to donate a few coins. Then, a lady comes by and changes his sign to say, “It’s a beautiful day and I can’t see it”. Suddenly, a lot of people come by and drop money into his tin cup.
What changed? Different words conveyed the same message in a unique way. The new message painted a picture of the blind man’s situation, which people could relate to. It created empathy. The results were phenomenal. To view this clip, click on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hzgzim5m7oU
When you speak, what words are you choosing? Are you clearly painting a picture which engages others’ imaginations? Are you choosing words which are confrontational or words which invite collaboration? If you are inviting confrontation, what effect does this have on your relationships?
Reflect on your intention before speaking and choosing your words. Is your intention to intimidate and prove that you are right or to invite collaboration? Inviting collaboration leads to positive results by combining talents and energies. Perpetuating conflict impedes communication.
Collaboration invites people to brainstorm ideas together which meet both parties’ needs. It can be used not only in business but also in your personal life. Instead of complaining about a problem to your spouse, paint a picture about how it makes you feel, and involve him or her in finding a mutually pleasing solution.
When age-appropriate, invite your children to find resolutions to disagreements which you may have. Instead of using your energy to solving a problem, you may find that children respond better when they participate in finding a solution.
As a coach, I help my clients transform their communication with others from confrontational to collaborative. The positive results can be seen in parent-child relationships, adult relationships, and business relationships. Collaborative communication hurts less than confrontational communication and results in deeper satisfaction and more peaceful relationships. Finding the right words can lead to deeper understanding and change your world
Original content by Kathleen Matchunis
Coach Kathy helps people transform their relationships by coaching them on how to change their communication style from confrontational to collaborative. Contact her at 954 294 9708 for a complimentary consultation. Checkout her website at: www.connectinginc.net and her page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/connectinginc.
